Back in 1969 Jackie DeShannon sang these words: "Think of your fellow man, Give him a helping hand, Put A Little Love In Your Heart."

DeShannon's song played over and over in my head after I attended Maine State Music Theater's current show, "Come From Away," book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. Given the state of our world right now, this show couldn't be staged at a better time: It demonstrates our capacity for kindness,  compassion, empathy, all of which are sorely needed now.

I had never seen this musical, but I'd heard about it off and on over the years from a friend who had. If, like me, you've never seen it here's all you need to know: The date: Sept. 11, 2001. The place: the small town of Gander in Newfoundland a.k.a. "The Rock," where 38 commercial aircraft were directed to land when U.S. airspace was closed following the terrorist attacks. For just shy of one week, almost 7,000 people from all over the world along with pet dogs and one chimpanzee had to rely on the kindness of strangers, the residents of Gander. This musical is their shared story.

"And the world will be a better place, For you and me, you just wait and see ... I hope when you decide, Kindness will be your guide, Put a little love in your heart." 

The show opens on a Tuesday beginning like any other Tuesday, or day for that matter. Conversation in the coffee shop, in this case, a Tim Horton's, ran the gamut from a school bus driver strike to a local couple who'd won a big lottery prize. Meanwhile, in the air, pilots are explaining to passengers about the unplanned detour and landing in Newfoundland. The anxiety of the passengers becomes heightened as the cabin lights are dimmed, then the turbulence ... anxiety ... fear.

This ensemble cast is beyond perfect, each portraying a main character and other passengers. Carolyn Anne Miller (Bonnie, the SPCA officer), Charis Leos (Beulah the librarian), David Girolmo (Claude, Mayor of Gander), Gregg Goodbrod (Nick, Doug and others), Tyler Hanes (Kevin T., Garth and others), Tarra Conner Jones (Hannah, others), Kolby Kindle (Bob and others), Carol Anne Miller (Bonnie), Cary Michele Miller (Beverly, Annette), Peter Matthew Smith (Oz), and Amy Bodnar (Diane).

Upon hearing of the flight heading their way, Gander's residents begin preparations: Passengers of all ages will need a change of clothes; babies will need diapers and formula; personal hygiene products for teens and  women, soap, toilet paper. Food, water and so much more. And shelter.

They learn more planes are being directed there. Rallying together, the residents gather what they can while learning more planes were being directed there. No one could have known the total would be 38 aircraft. If ever there was a group of people focused on their "fellow man" it was the population of Gander and help from six other towns on The Rock.

The music, live from on stage featured keyboards, accordion, guitars, fiddle, mandolin, flute, whistles, bass, drums. Speaking of: One of many standout scenes for me includes the drinking scene at the Legion Hall (can't recall exactly). Gander residents and a good-sized group of the passengers "tie one on," and then the visitors are asked to "Kiss the Fish" as are all newbies to The Rock. It's called a "Screech-In" ceremony. So it's rum, fried bologna and a big smooch for the fish. The scene is a riot, providing much needed laughter for the audience in Pickard Theater and, I imagine, the actors. 

It was great to see Charis Leos on stage. She's perfect as Beulah. And the relationship that quickly develops between Beulah and Hannah, played by Tarra Conner Jones, is heartfelt. Hannah's son has been missing since the Twin Towers fell and she fears (as the audience surmises) he has died. Their relationship is beautifully portrayed by these two gifted actresses. 

Kolby Kindle as Bob is a treasure and a joy. His change from deep skepticism and distrust of everyone, because he fears the world is ending (as everyone else is/was most likely, but they aren't displaying that fear), to someone who has found a way to cope thanks to the residents of The Rock.

And the romantic love story in this show, between Texan Diane (Amy Bodnar) and Brit Nick (Goodbrod) just goes to show you that love really doesn't know any bounds. 

"And the world will be a better place, For you and me, you just wait and see ... I hope when you decide, Kindness will be your guide, Put a little love in your heart." 

Don't miss the big screen on the stage at the end of the show where the people of Gander will be shown. Did I mention the two bonobo chimpanzees? You'll see them.

The events of 9/11 lives on in the hearts and memories of our country and the world. And if you think your're "over it," this show will bring back many memories of your own. And with the characters in this show you will cry, you will laugh, and you will cry again.

Call the box office for tickets for the final shows this week: (207) 725-8769  or visit https://msmt.org/

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